Dallas College Offers Students the Chance to Soar in Aviation Careers

Aug. 11, 2025

Bryan Loera was first introduced to the field of aviation maintenance by his brother who worked at American Airlines. 

“At the time, I was unsure of what career path I wanted to take—but one thing I did know was that I wanted to be a problem solver,” said Loera. “As I began asking more questions about aviation maintenance, my interest in it as a potential career began to grow.” 

As luck would have it, Loera discovered Dallas College was launching its Aviation Maintenance Technology (AMT) program. Loera had earned an associate degree from Dallas College and appreciated how much the professors had cared about the students they taught. 

“After speaking with both AMT instructors—both at the start and still today—it’s clear that same level of care and passion exists in this program as well,” he said. 

“This program has two incredible instructors who bring experience from both the civilian and military aviation sectors. They’ve also observed how other schools operate and made it a point to eliminate ineffective teaching methods. What they’re teaching us is exactly what we need to succeed in the field and be fully prepared.” 

Skyrocketing Demand

Dallas College launched its Aviation Maintenance Technology program last spring, filling a vital need in the area. 

According to Richard Heitzman, member of Dallas College’s A&P Advisory Committee, the industry will need more than 400,000 mechanics in the next 10 years to replace retiring mechanics worldwide. 

Heitzman explained, “The current average age of aviation mechanics in the USA is 54, with over 80% expected to retire in the next 10 years. The COVID-19 pandemic impacted the industry in two ways. The first is that it accelerated retirements and slowed down and reduced the number of new mechanics into the workforce. This impacted the DFW market,  with several major airlines like Southwest and American Airlines, especially hard. Many repair stations and business jet operators  compete to fill these hard to replace mechanics.” 

Heitzman believes there has never been a better time to enter the aviation field as a mechanic, with salaries being higher than ever. Currently, the median salary reported for aircraft mechanics and service technicians is $42 an hour. 

“As a comparison, my first aircraft mechanic job when I left the military was at $8 an hour,” said Heitzman. 

Launching a Career With Connections

Dallas College’s AMT program offers valuable benefits to students who are looking to pursue careers in aviation.  

When compared to other schools, Loera found Dallas College’s AMT program the best option. Students can complete the program in 13 months, and tuition costs are lower than other programs. 

“When I saw how affordable the Dallas College program was, I thought it was a great deal—and to my surprise, that wasn’t even the best part,” said Loera. “I was able to receive financial assistance and apply for a grant that covered my entire tuition.” 

Another benefit: being almost guaranteed a job. “Most, if not all, technicians who complete the program should have a job offer long before they leave the training,” said Heitzman. With extensive local industry partnerships, students are able to gain experience, exposure and connections with the different areas of aviation and potential employers.  

“Although the program is still new and we’re all learning and growing together, I think one of the most valuable aspects so far has been the access to quality materials and modern equipment,” said Loera. “These tools are helping me, my classmates and future students gain the hands-on experience we need to succeed in our journey.” 

Learn more about the Aviation Maintenance Technology program.

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